Excelsior Correspondent
REASI, Dec 8: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah today raised concerns over the impact of model of development in Jammu and Kashmir, including the installation of a ropeway in the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage area.
“I am not against the ropeway, but the LG administration must consider the livelihood of thousands of people who are entirely dependent on the pilgrimage. Alternatives must be provided to those affected,” he asserted in response to media queries on sidelines of a function, here today.
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Rejecting the UT administration’s claims of development in Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq said: “What previous Government and the UT administration have done in the last ten years is all on paper only.”
Responding to a question about the Government’s promise of providing 200 units free electricity, Dr Abdullah expressed hope, stating, “The Government will definitely fulfil all promises made in its manifesto.”
On the issue of illegal Rohingya settlements, Dr Abdullah sought to clarify that the responsibility in this regard lies with the Central Government. “Rohingyas were given shelter by the Central Government in every State, not by the State Government. The State Government is not responsible for their settlements,” he remarked.
Regarding purported attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, Dr Abdullah emphasized the need for mutual respect among religions. He pointed out: “While we discuss respect for people from other religions, India should first address the attacks on Muslims in Uttar Pradesh, including the demolition of their homes. We have no hope from the international community or the UN, as no case-whether related to Kashmir or other issues-has ever been resolved there.”
The NC president also highlighted the administrative challenges faced by residents of Bhomag, calling for the Tehsildar’s office to be located in Bhomag rather than Reasi. “If Bhomag was made a tehsil, the Tehsildar should operate from Bhomag. Why should the poor people of Bhomag suffer and travel to Reasi for their tehsil-related work?” he questioned.
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